Editor’s Notebook: Be Your Own Steward
One of the most important jobs you have is to make sure your customers are satisfied and that they return to your shop for additional repairs and preventive maintenance. Exceeding their expectations should rank among one of your most important-customer service strategies.
Kia Brake & Chassis Repairs
Import Specialist Bob Dowie advises that while the Kia suspension system will provide many problem-free miles, from a safety standpoint, it could be argued that the steering and suspension system on any car is the most critical. That’s why it’s so important that every car that goes on the lift should get a basic safety check.
Managing Company Assets, Part 2
In this space last month, Steve Louden, president of Louden Motorcar Services in Dallas, shared his insights on ways to significantly boost your shop’s revenue potential by analyzing HOW you manage your company assets. Lack of attention in these key areas are oftentimes the number one reason for a shop’s poor performance or failure, advises
Brake Job: Dodge Magnum/Challenger/Charger
The 2005-current Chrysler rear-wheel-drive LX-Platform. The LX platform includes the 300, Magnum and Charger. In 2008, the platform was shortened for use in the LC-platform that was used in the Challenger platform. All have rear disc brakes with the parking/emergency brake mounted in the hat of the rear rotor.
Editor’s Notebook: Manage Company Assets to Boost Your Shop’s Revenue Potential
As we continue to face the most challenging economic times in recent history, your shop’s bottom line and return on investment are undoubtedly top of mind. And, while financial subjects are dry and usually at the bottom of a shop owner’s list of desirable activities, says Steve Louden, president of Louden Motorcar Services in Dallas, they typically are the number one reason for poor performance or failure.
Advice from the Bendix Answerman: Brake Fluid Service as Important as Oil Changes
While some may think an old school “flush” will breathe new life into a braking system, Chuck Kennedy, technical trainer at Bendix Brakes says if one is performed without checking for contaminants already present, the braking system’s hydraulic control unit (HCU) can be seriously damaged. That’s why maintaining clean, contaminant-free brake fluid is just as important to a vehicle as getting regular oil changes.
Bosch Expertise on Oxygen Sensors for Vehicle Manufacturers Benefits the Aftermarket
Bosch has been manufacturing and supplying automotive parts and systems to vehicle manufacturers since the very beginning of the automobile. As inventor, manufacturer and supplier of many ground-breaking automotive technologies – such as the oxygen sensor which was introduced in 1976 – to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Bosch enjoys a unique position in being able to bring OE-level quality, fit and function to its aftermarket products.
Tech Feature: Mazda6 and Mazda3 Driveability Diagnostics and Electronic Throttle Control
Drive-by-wire throttle control systems are pretty much trouble-free but have to be taken into consideration as you perform routine service and diagnose problems, and it changes the way you service these cars when it comes to cleaning the throttle plates, advises Bob Dowie, import specialist contributor, who also covers electronic throttle control’s tie in with ABS and VSC systems.
Alignment & Suspension Specs: GM Lambda Full-Sized SUVs
Lambda is General Motors’ full-size crossover SUV platform that is the foundation for the 2008-2010 Buick Enclave, 2009-2010 Chevrolet Traverse, 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia. It has been reported, Cadillac will receive a Lambda vehicle in 2012, which could possibly replace the current Escalade.
Cooper to Drivers: Check Tires as Winter Weather Approaches
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. recommends drivers engage in routine tire maintenance, checking that their tires are in the proper condition to deal with potentially hazardous road conditions this winter season.